An Overview of Nasal Obstruction

An Overview of Nasal Obstruction

Sinusitis, Deviated Septum, Nasal Polyps, Enlarged Turbinates

Nasal obstruction is one of the most common reasons that patients see an ENT (ear, nose and throat doctor). Common causes of nasal obstruction included deviated septum, nasal polyps, and enlarged turbinates. A persistent stuffy nose is not normal and a blockage in the nasal cavity can cause sinusitis (sinus infection), headaches, snoring and possibly sleep apnea.

A nasal blockage can lead to chronic mouth breathing which can cause a sore throat, hoarseness, ear problems, post nasal drip and voice changes. A nasal obstruction will also cause increased difficulties with snoring.

There are many different causes of nasal obstruction that fall into two categories: anatomical and non-anatomical. The most common anatomical cause is an abnormality in the nasal septum or bones inside the nose called turbinates. Common non-anatomical causes include nasal polyps, and chronic sinus disease also known as sinusitis.